7 Organizations You Should Think Twice Before Giving Money To

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When it comes to charitable giving, most people have good intentions. We want our money to make a difference—to help others, support a cause, or contribute to the greater good.

But not all organizations are as noble or effective as they appear. Some may mismanage funds, exaggerate their impact, or even spend more on salaries and marketing than on actual charitable work. Before you open your wallet, it’s worth taking a closer look at who’s really benefiting.

1. Wounded Warrior Project

Wounded Warrior Project was once one of the most popular veterans’ charities in the U.S. However, the organization came under fire in recent years for questionable spending practices. Reports revealed that large portions of donations were going toward lavish staff retreats and conferences instead of programs for veterans.

While the organization claims it has restructured, watchdog groups still rate it lower than similar veterans’ charities. If you want to help veterans, consider alternatives like the Fisher House Foundation or Semper Fi & America’s Fund.

2. Kids Wish Network

Kids Wish Network sounds like a heartfelt organization granting wishes to sick children—but its record tells a different story. Charity watchdogs have consistently ranked it among the worst in the nation for how it spends donor money.

Reports have shown that less than 5% of the funds raised actually go toward helping children, while the rest goes to fundraising companies and salaries. It’s a classic example of a charity using emotional appeal to mask poor financial practices. Better options include Make-A-Wish Foundation or Starlight Children’s Foundation, which have stronger reputations for transparency and effectiveness.

3. Cancer Fund of America

The name alone makes you feel like your donation will fight a deadly disease, but Cancer Fund of America is infamous for its track record. The organization has been involved in multiple investigations for misusing donations, including a massive Federal Trade Commission (FTC) case.

Very little of the money raised ever made it to cancer patients; instead, it was spent on junk mail, telemarketers, and administrative costs. It was eventually shut down by the FTC, but variations of similar-sounding charities still exist. Always research cancer charities carefully and consider donating to trusted groups like the American Cancer Society or Cancer Research Institute.

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4. SPCA International

Animal lovers may be drawn to donate to SPCA International, believing it to be connected to their local SPCA chapters. However, it’s a completely separate organization—and one with a controversial reputation.

Investigations have shown that a significant portion of donations go to telemarketing firms, not animals in need. While it has funded some animal rescue work, watchdogs criticize it for low financial transparency and high fundraising costs. For more direct impact, consider donating to your local animal shelter or established groups like the ASPCA or Humane Society of the United States.

5. National Veterans Service Fund

With a name that implies direct aid to veterans, the National Veterans Service Fund has raised millions. Unfortunately, a large chunk of that money has gone to professional fundraisers, not to veterans themselves. In fact, reports showed that only a small percentage—sometimes under 10%—of donations reached those in need.

The organization has faced criticism for misleading donors and for poor financial oversight. If your goal is to support veterans, there are better-run and more transparent charities out there.

6. The Committee for Missing Children

Protecting and finding missing children is a cause almost anyone would want to support. That’s why The Committee for Missing Children strikes such a nerve—because it doesn’t live up to its noble mission. Financial records show that the group spends the vast majority of donations on administrative costs and salaries, with very little going toward actually helping find missing kids. Despite its long history, it has made minimal impact compared to other child advocacy organizations. Donors would do better to support groups like the National Center for Missing & Exploited Children.

7. Disabled Veterans National Foundation

This organization has a name that suggests credibility and trustworthiness, but its track record tells another story. Disabled Veterans National Foundation has been repeatedly criticized for financial inefficiency and lack of transparency. At one point, reports showed that nearly all of the $55 million raised over a few years went to marketing firms and not to veterans.

It has since made changes, but watchdog groups still raise concerns about its spending habits. Veterans deserve better, and so do donors—look for highly rated alternatives like DAV (Disabled American Veterans) or Homes For Our Troops.

Keep Giving, But Be Careful

Giving should feel good, not leave you with doubts. By taking a little extra time to research an organization, you can make sure your money actually reaches the people—and causes—you care about. Transparency, accountability, and a clear record of impact should all be non-negotiable. Remember: your donation is your voice, so make sure it’s heard in the right places.

Have you had a positive or negative experience with any of these charities—or others? Your insight could help someone make a smarter giving decision.

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Brandon Marcus

Brandon Marcus is a writer who has been sharing the written word since a very young age. His interests include sports, history, pop culture, and so much more. When he isn’t writing, he spends his time jogging, drinking coffee, or attempting to read a long book he may never complete.